Liga de Quito and Independiente del Valle debut in Copa Ecuador round of 16

The Copa Ecuador enters its round of 16 this Wednesday, featuring three teams from the Liga Pro, including former champions Liga de Quito and Independiente del Valle. Both clubs are considered favorites to advance to the quarterfinals, especially given their strong performances in the current season.

Independiente del Valle, led by Uruguayan coach Joaquín Papa, is a strong contender for the title. The team currently tops the Liga Pro standings and has also reached the round of 16 in the Copa Libertadores. They are set to face Manta FC, who are at the bottom of the Liga Pro and facing relegation. Independiente del Valle boasts key players such as Colombian goalkeeper Aldair Quintana and leading scorers Emerson Pata and Matías Perelló, who have each scored eight goals in the league.

Following their Copa Ecuador match, Independiente del Valle will shift focus to the Copa Libertadores, where they are scheduled to play Deportes Tolima of Colombia on August 11. The club's strong performance across multiple competitions highlights their depth and ambition for the season.

Liga de Quito is also beginning its Copa Ecuador campaign as a favorite against Leones del Norte, a team in its first season in Ecuador's top flight that has had a respectable performance since promotion. Liga de Quito enters the match with momentum, having recently defeated Barcelona SC and officially starting the tenure of new coach Gustavo Álvarez. The Argentine coach has set his sights on winning all available titles this season.

Liga de Quito is also preparing for their Copa Libertadores round of 16 tie against Brazil's Mirassol, scheduled to begin on August 13. Their squad includes notable players like Ricardo Adé, Gian Franco Allala, Jesús Pretell, Fernando Cornejo, and Brazilian striker Deyverson.